Pihatilat

Pihatilat are outdoor spaces that accompany buildings and are intended for human activity. In Finnish planning and architecture, the term piha-tilat refers to such spaces, including private yards, shared courtyards in housing blocks, and other open areas connected to the built environment. They can be privately owned, shared among residents, or publicly accessible, depending on ownership and land-use arrangements.

The functions of pihatilat are diverse. They provide opportunities for recreation, relaxation, children's play, outdoor dining, and gardening, as well as routes for movement and service access around a building. The design typically includes a combination of hard surfaces (paving, gravel) and soft landscaping (grass, shrubs, trees), seating, lighting, shade structures, and sometimes water features. Good piha design integrates with building architecture, supports accessibility for all users, ensures safe circulation, and considers privacy and noise between adjacent spaces. Climate and urban conditions often guide choices of plantings, materials, and microclimate controls such as windbreaks and sun exposure.

Planning and management of pihatilat are governed by local zoning, building codes, and property agreements. Maintenance responsibilities may lie with property owners, housing associations, schools or municipalities. Increasing emphasis is placed on safety, accessibility, usability in different seasons, stormwater management through permeable surfaces, and biodiversity through varied plantings.